Anna Kendrick Dishes on Why She’d Be ‘Terrible at Being Like Taylor Swift’—And It’s Not What You Think

When Anna Kendrick spoke candidly about how she engages with fans, she made one thing clear: she’s not interested in trying to be someone she’s not. In a 2016 interview with Net-a-Porter’s The Edit, Kendrick discussed the challenges of managing public expectations and explained why she thinks she would fall short if she tried to emulate Taylor Swift’s famously polished approach.

An Honest Take on Fan Interaction

Kendrick described her public persona as “snarky,” a label she embraces as a reflection of her genuine self. This self-awareness is what led her to the now-famous line, “I’d be terrible at being like Taylor Swift, the perfect Miss America version of interacting with fans and making sure they have a good experience.” Rather than dismissing Swift’s approach, Kendrick was reflecting on her own personality and how it shapes her interactions. She admitted that she struggles with certain fan demands—like those who ask her to “do that thing”—but she also appreciates that her audience seems to “get” her humor.

The Taylor Swift Standard

By comparison, Taylor Swift is known for an entirely different style of fan engagement. Over the years, she has cultivated a reputation for her thoughtful, personal gestures, from handwritten notes to surprise appearances at fan events. Swift’s commitment to making her fans feel seen and appreciated has become a cornerstone of her image, with examples ranging from her intimate listening parties for 1989 to her current Eras Tour, where live interactions are a nightly feature.

A Contrasting Approach

Kendrick, however, has found success in her own way—leaning into her sharp wit and relatability. She has frequently used humor, especially on social media, to connect with her followers. Rather than attempting a “perfect” interaction, Kendrick embraces a more offbeat style, allowing her to maintain authenticity and engage with fans on her own terms.

This contrast isn’t a criticism of Swift’s methods but a recognition that different stars have different strengths. As Kendrick explained in the Net-a-Porter interview, she doesn’t want to risk ruining a fan’s day, but she also knows she’s not cut out for the same level of polished, picture-perfect engagement. “I think people understand the way I communicate,” she said, grateful that her fans appreciate her quirkier approach.

A Broader Discussion on Celebrity Dynamics

Kendrick’s candid remarks also shed light on a broader topic in celebrity culture: the pressures of managing public expectations. For some, creating a polished, “Miss America” experience may feel natural, while for others, it can feel forced or inauthentic. By openly acknowledging her own limits, Kendrick offered an honest perspective on what it means to find balance between staying true to oneself and maintaining a connection with fans.

Ultimately, Kendrick’s reflections serve as a reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to celebrity-fan interactions. Both her down-to-earth style and Swift’s polished charm resonate with different audiences, proving that there’s room for authenticity in all its forms.